Originally Posted by
ak08820
Exactly, and I was pointing out that the LBS bikes, too have integrated steel rings, just like (or worse than) the DS (Dept Store) bikes, instead of the expected better quality interchangeable rings.
"Better quality" depends on who you ask. Those stamped steel rings are cheaper to replace (yes, you replace the whole crankset but it can be had for less than the cost of a single aluminum ring) and last longer than aluminum rings. I've also found that they shift just fine considering the bikes they come on. The only thing left is weight. The average consumer wouldn't know the difference between steel and aluminum anyway so it's a non-issue to them. Your expectation for replaceable chainrings on the lowest end of bike store bikes is not realistic.